What's New for 1996 GMC Sierra 1500
Knowing how much a vehicle has changed from previous model years can help provide additional context when reviewing reliability ratings. Our Editors give you the bottom-line on what's new, the pros, the cons and more.
What's New for 1996
A new series of engines is introduced, providing more power and torque than last year's offerings. Called Vortec, this family of engines includes a 4.3-liter V6 (the only six-cylinder of the bunch) capable of 200 hp @ 4,400 rpm and 255 lb-ft of torque @ 2,800 rpm; a 5.0-liter V8, producing 220 hp @ 4,600 rpm and 285 lb-ft of torque @ 2,800 rpm; and a 5.7-liter V8, rated at 250 hp @ 4,600 rpm and 335 lb-ft of torque @ 2,800 rpm. (There is also a 7.4-liter Vortec V8, but it's only available on the heavier duty C/K 3500 trucks.) All of these figures represent increases in output when compared to their respective 1995 predecessors. An optional electronic shift transfer case for the K1500 (i.e. 4WD; C= 2WD; K= 4WD) rounds out the list of the most significant powertrain updates for this year. Other noteworthy updates include the introduction of an optional passenger-side third door, called the "Easy-Access System," in GM vernacular. This feature is only available on the extended cab body styles. Improved comfort and convenience comes in the way of such new features as illuminated entry, 12-volt power outlets, an electrochromic inside rearview mirror and height-adjustable D-rings for the shoulder section of the front three-point safety belts, among others. Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) are part the list of new exterior features. A new level of sophistication in exhaust emissions monitoring is found with the addition of OBD II, the second generation of On-Board Diagnostics. Read More
Long-Term Reliability Ratings by Identifix
Portions © 2008 by Identifix, Inc. All rights reserved
Ratings Key
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Minimal Problems |
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Moderate Problems |
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Significant Problems |
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 Reliability Rating
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Rating |
Comments |
| Engine |
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Common problems on this vehicle are failures of the Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors and the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Passages. Failure of the Fuel Pump and Fuel Injectors may prevent the vehicle from starting. The cost to repair the Fuel Pump is estimated at $98.00 for parts and $130.00 for labor.The cost to repair the Fuel Injectors is estimated at $95.00 for parts and $195.00 for labor.The cost to repair the EGR Passages is estimated at $16.00 for parts and $58.50 for labor.All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax. |
| Transmission & Driveline |
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Occasional problems on this vehicle are failures of the Transmission Valve Body, (automatic transmission only) and the Front Axle Acutator (4WD models only). The cost to repair the Transmission Valve Body is estimated at $485.00 for parts and $110.50 for labor.The cost to repair the Front Axle Acutator is estimated at $95.00 for parts and $65.00 for labor.All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax. |
| Steering & Suspension |
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| Brake |
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| Starting & Charging |
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An occasional problem on this vehicle is failure of the Ignition Switch, causing Transmission shifting problems as well as an inoperative Tachometer. Failure of the Ignition Switch may prevent the vehicle from starting. The cost to repair the Ignition Switch is estimated at $160.00 for parts and $45.50 for labor.All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax. |
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| Overall |
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4 out of 5 |
Reliability ratings displayed above reflect style specific standard features and may vary from aggregated values displayed for the same year in the historical model overview below.
Reliability History for GMC Sierra 1500
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Reliability History for GMC
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